2012
Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Competition
Gold: The Vacation Gals (co-owned with two other travel writers) for Best Travel Blog

Society of American Travel Writers Western Chapter Writing Awards
Silver: “Affordable Aulani: How to Vacation at Disney’s Hawaii Resort on a Budget” for Travel Service Article

2011
North American Travel Journalists Association Annual Awards
Gold: “Affordable Aulani: How to Vacation at Disney’s Hawaii Resort on a Budget” for Budget Travel – Internet
Bronze: TheVacationGals.com (co-owned with two other travel writers) for Travel Blog

Society of American Travel Writers Western Chapter Writing Awards
Silver: Traveling with Kids on FamilyVacationCritic.com for Travel Service Article

2010
North American Travel Journalists Association Annual Awards
Gold: TheVacationGals.com (co-owned with two other travel writers) for Independent Blog
Silver: “A Perfect Day at The Broadmoor, Colorado’s 5-star Luxury Resort” for Resorts – Internet

2007
Parenting Publications of America Editorial & Design Awards Competition
Gold: “Lovin’ Legoland,” Mountain Parent, Travel Feature
Bronze: “Kauai with Kids,” Mountain Parent, Travel Feature

2006
PPA Editorial & Design Awards Competition
Silver: “Labor of Love,” Mountain Parent, Profile
Silver: “Doin’ Disney,” Mountain Parent, Travel Feature

2005
PPA Editorial & Design Awards Competition
Rookie of the Year: Mountain Parent, which Kara edited at the time
Judges said: “It would be difficult for anyone to know this is a new publication—the editorial and design elements have a confident, but fun, personality. Thorough research and writing in stories such as family travel are made even stronger through good editing.”
Bronze: “Goin’ Places,” Mountain Parent, Special Section

2004
Colorado Press Association Annual Awards
Third Place: “Boy’s angel sighting leads to rescue of injured snowmobiler,” Glenwood Springs Post Independent, Best News Story